Myoporum Parvifolium: A Lush, Low-Water Lawn Alternative for Mild Climates

Bright green, fine-textured Myoporum parvifolium creates a living carpet that mimics lawn's visual effect with a fraction of the water and maintenance. This Australian native thrives in California and the Southwest where winters stay mild—but it cannot tolerate foot traffic.

Plant Profile

Botanical name: Myoporum parvifolium
Common names: Slender myoporum, trailing myoporum, creeping boobialla, dwarf native myrtle
Origin: Australia
Hardiness: USDA Zone 9 (20°F/–6.7°C)
Water: Moderately drought-tolerant; every 5 days (summer), weekly (spring/fall), biweekly (winter)
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Mature size: 3–6 inches tall, up to 9 feet wide
Benefits: Drought-tolerant; attracts bees; firewise; deer-resistant
Seasonal interest: White star-shaped flowers spring to early summer; purple berries follow
Planting: Spring or fall

Distinguishing Traits

Narrow, medium-green leaves (½–1 inch) on succulent trailing stems that root wherever they touch bare soil. White spring flowers attract bees; purple berries follow.

Design Uses

• Slopes—stems root as they spread, creating green splashes
• Lawn replacement where low green carpet is desired
• Around boulders for texture contrast
• Tall raised beds—stems cascade beautifully

Planting & Care

• Space 6 feet apart in well-drained soil
• Landscape rock inhibits rooting—use to contain spread
• Prune in spring/summer to control size
• Plants become woody after a few years, creating bare patches—root younger tip stems to fill gaps
• Fertilize early spring with all-purpose fertilizer

More resources: 10 Succulents for Easy Ground Covers | How to Replace Your Lawn With a Garden